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First AME’s Former Pastor Says He’s Troubled By Church Upheaval

In his final days as pastor of First African Methodist Episcopal Church, the Rev. Cecil L. “Chip” Murray compiled, copied and buried piles of records amassed over the 27 years he led the congregation.

The Rev. Cecil L. “Chip” Murray presides over his last service at First AME church in 2004 (Credit: LA Times)

The time capsule, he believed, would preserve his legacy and document the church’s role as a force for positive change in South L.A.

But in the nine years since he retired, Murray has watched his hard work crumble under the leadership of his successor, the Rev. John J. Hunter, and his wife.

Allegations of financial mismanagement and sexual improprieties tarnished the church under the new minister. But it wasn’t until Hunter was removed from the pulpit last year that the full scope of the church’s troubles became clear.